The U.S. Departments of Education and Labor announced on Apr. 8 the launch of the Fiscal Year 2026 competitions for the Teacher and School Leader Incentive Program and the Innovative Approaches to Literacy Program. These initiatives are part of ongoing efforts to align workforce and education programs, expand education freedom, and improve educator effectiveness.
The announcement marks the start of this year's K-12 education grant competitions, with more expected in the coming months. As part of a strengthened partnership between both departments, awards from these competitions will be managed through GrantSolutions, a grants management platform operated by the Department of Labor.
“These grant competitions mark an important milestone in our efforts to support our nation’s teachers and empower families with education choice,” said Assistant Secretary for the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education Kirsten Baesler. “By investing in effective educator development programs and proven literacy models, we are elevating innovative solutions that directly shape student outcomes. Together with the Department of Labor, we are prioritizing investment in the support systems closest to students – families and educators.”
Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training Dr. Henry Mack said, “Education reaches its fullest potential when learning is fused with vocation and industry. Today’s announcement is indeed an important one. By integrating education with employment and occupational needs, we avoid aimless drift and empower individuals to live with purpose, adaptability, productivity, dignity, and contribution to the Golden Age of America’s economy.”
According to officials, under previous administrations these grant competitions prioritized grantees focused on race- or identity-based programming rather than academic achievement or teacher retention. The current administration says it will prioritize applicants who focus on meaningful learning opportunities such as at-home learning support for families; piloting or scaling innovative workforce models based on merit; meeting industry needs; or returning control over education policy to states.
Background information provided notes that in November 2025 six new Interagency Agreements were established by ED with four agencies aimed at reducing federal bureaucracy in education funding delivery. The partnership between ED and DOL was formalized through such an agreement so DOL can help manage funds, provide technical assistance, integrate teacher workforce programs into existing labor department offerings.
Further guidance will be provided as implementation continues throughout this year.
